E93 2012 convertible

Looking at a lot of M3s available....

great values!~. somehow I seem to prefer the older V-8s with manual transmission - in convertible. It would be what MANNIX would drive in 2015....

Somehow the newer 6 cyl. turbos -while more HP just seem a bit "whinier" with higher revs instead of the V-8 grunt low end torque of their V-8s. Am I wrong? how do these engines hold ups with the valve seal problems we hear so much about?

Next question, what is the most favored car model from all these and is it reliable? M3s are obviously raced a lot...
What should I ask about when I have an interesting car?

Much appreciated!

I'm not help on what's the best. It's really what your looking for and what you want to do with it. My wife has a 2012 e93 with just about every option that's out there. A big smile is on her face every time she drives it. With 40k and only minor maintenance issues. Just a fun car to drive.